A compact, scenic loop from Funchal up to Eira do Serrado, down into Curral das Freiras and back through Monte. Expect steep volcanic ridgelines, a historic mountain village, and cultivated Monte gardens—an easy, high-reward half-day outing.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You begin above the bay of Funchal, where Pico dos Barcelos gives you a first, broad glance at the city’s tiled roofs and the Atlantic beyond. The road climbs and folds through laurel forest until the landscape opens at Eira do Serrado, 1,053 meters up, where the valley of Curral das Freiras drops away—steep walls of basalt and green terraces pressing in on a village that seems to have grown out of the rock. The return swing to Monte lets you walk among formal gardens and visit the Church of Nossa Senhora do Monte before the descent back toward Funchal.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; minimal walking required but involves short uphill sections and uneven surfaces.
Wildlife
History
Curral das Freiras was historically a remote refuge—legend says nuns hid there from pirate raids—creating a village culture focused on chestnuts and subsistence agriculture.
Conservation
Laurisilva forest fragments on Madeira are a priority for conservation; stick to paths and avoid disturbing endemic plants and nesting birds to reduce impact.
Reserve your spot on the Curral das Freiras e Monte today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Layer for elevation changes
Temperatures can drop quickly above 1,000 m—carry a windbreaker or fleece for viewpoint stops.
Time for clear views
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid low cloud in the valley and harsh midday light.
Comfortable shoes for short walks
Bring sturdy walking shoes: viewpoints and village streets can be uneven or wet after rain.
Stay hydrated and snack-ready
There are limited services in Curral das Freiras; pack water and small snacks if you want to explore longer.
Layered jacket
Blocks wind and handles the temperature swing from coast to ridge.
fall
Sturdy walking shoes
Grip and ankle support for cobbled village streets and viewpoint paths.
Reusable water bottle
Keeps you hydrated when shops in the village are limited.
summer
Wide-brim hat and sunscreen
Protects against strong sun on exposed viewpoints and terraces.
summer